Toppan to launch paper-based Green Flat as an alternative to skin packs
Skin packs are widely used in Europe, North America, and Asia because their complete sealing can maintain the freshness of food and extend shelflife.
Paper-based material
Green Flat replaces the polystyrene or plastic tray often used in skin packs with a paper-based material incorporating Toppan’s proprietary GL Film.
This provides freshness retention and lowers environmental impact by reducing the use of plastic without sacrificing functionality. The tray can be made using paper from certified forests and, because it is flat, can Be used as a chopping board.
In combination with the barrier film applied over the product, lamination of the tray with GL Film, Toppan’s original transparent barrier film, means food is protected from oxygen, moisture, and other external impacts, further enhancing content preservation.
“Today there is strong demand for packaging that maintains freshness but also reduces environmental impact by addressing such issues as marine plastic pollution and food waste,” said Shingo Wada, GM, business strategy, Toppan Japan.
“Toppan strives to meet this demand by leveraging extensive experience in paper-based packaging and developing a range of products incorporating its advanced GL Barrier technology.
“Green Flat provides outstanding freshness preservation, better environmental performance, and exciting possibilities for package designs and displays that create an impact in stores.”
Green Flat offers advantages in terms of attractive package design and eye-catching displays in stores. High-quality printing is possible on both surfaces of the tray and the prevention of drip made possible by the tight seal means packages for fresh foods can be stood up or suspended from hooks for display.
Customer engagement
A QR code can also be printed onto the tray to enhance customer engagement by providing information or running online or online/offline promotions.
The Green Flat system offered by Toppan will consist of the Green Flat tray, a skin pack filling system, skin pack film, and a consulting service for system implementation.
Samples are available now and full-scale sales are scheduled to begin in December.
Consulting services will be offered to customers to create appealing designs, implement promotions, and make the most of shop space.
